Molten Salts Tanks Thermal Energy Storage: Aspects to Consider during Design

Cristina Prieto (), Adrian Blindu, Luisa F. Cabeza (), Juan Valverde and Guillermo García
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Cristina Prieto: Department of Energy Engineering, Universidad de Sevilla, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
Adrian Blindu: Department of Energy Engineering, Universidad de Sevilla, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
Luisa F. Cabeza: GREiA Research Group, Universitat de Lleida, Pere de Cabrera s/n, 25001 Lleida, Spain
Juan Valverde: Virtualmechanics S.L, c/Arquitectura 1, 41015 Sevilla, Spain
Guillermo García: Build to Zero S.L, c/Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada, 2, 41092 Sevilla, Spain

Energies, 2023, vol. 17, issue 1, 1-19

Abstract: Concentrating solar power plants use sensible thermal energy storage, a mature technology based on molten salts, due to the high storage efficiency (up to 99%). Both parabolic trough collectors and the central receiver system for concentrating solar power technologies use molten salts tanks, either in direct storage systems or in indirect ones. But even though this is a mature technology, it still shows challenges in its implementation and operation. This paper underscores the critical importance of stringent design criteria for molten salt tanks in thermal storage technology. Focusing on the potential ramifications of design failures, the study explores various dimensions where an inadequate design can lead to severe consequences, even jeopardizing the viability of the entire technology. Key areas discussed include structural integrity, corrosion, thermal shock, thermal expansions, and others. By elucidating the multifaceted risks associated with design shortcomings, this paper aims to emphasize the necessity of thorough reviews and adherence to robust design principles for ensuring the success, safety, and sustainability of thermal storage technology.

Keywords: concentrating solar power (CSP); thermal energy storage (TES); molten salt tanks; challenges; design; failures; modelling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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